Basic Terminology Flashcards
A painted canvas or muslin curtain hung from a batten to form part of the scenery
Backdrop or drop
The stage floor between the front edge of the stage and front curtain
Apron
The area behind the scenery not visible to the audience
Backstage
A horizontal pipe suspended over the stage, from which scenery, lights, or curtains are hung; also called a rail
Batten
A system that uses lines, cables, and weights to raise and lower the battens that hold scenery, drops, and lights
Counterweight system
Controls that change the level of lighting intensity
Dimmers
Characteristics that make up a characters physical appearance, such as posture, gestures, mannerisms, voice, and clothing
External traits
Pieces of canvas stretched over wooden frames or thin pieces of wood; painted and linked together, they create scenery such as walks and doorways
Flats
Lights that illuminate broad areas of the stage
Floodlights
The area above the stage where scenery, drops, and lights are hung when not in use
Fly space
The imaginary wall through which the audience views the play
Fourth wall
A room where actors relax before and after performances
Green room
Another name for auditorium, the place where the audience sits
House
Auditorium lights used before and after the play and during intermission
House lights
An impromptu scene where the actors make up the dialogue and action on the spot
improvisation
